LETTERS TO THE TIMES

Illegal Crossings

Re "Mexican Official Condemns Use of Spike Strips in Border Chases," March 11: To Consul-General Rodulfo Figueroa's statement about "gross negligence" by the California Highway Patrol and Border Patrol for using spike strips in pursuits that have reached speeds of nearly 100 mph: Why doesn't the Mexican government take the responsibility of keeping its own people on its side of the border? Crossing the border illegally is breaking the law and a criminal act. So why is it gross negligence to pursue lawbreakers and criminals?